Student Life

At the UT Tyler School of Medicine, student life extends beyond the classroom and clinical training. Through student-led organizations, service initiatives, and our academic house system, we foster a supportive and engaged community where students can explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and make a lasting impact.

Student Interest Groups (SIGs)

Student Interest Groups (SIGs) provide opportunities for students to connect with peers who share similar interests in medicine, mentorship, and involvement. Whether focused on a medical specialty, professional development, or community service, SIGs allow students to explore career pathways, gain hands-on experience, and collaborate with faculty mentors. Our growing list of SIGs includes:

• Specialty-based groups such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and more.
• Interest-driven organizations focused on research, global health, and medical innovation such as our Global Health SIG and Texas Medical Society (TMA).
• Wellness, advocacy, and outreach groups that promote balance and social responsibility such a KNN, MedMentors, and Student Senate.

Students are encouraged to join existing groups or start their own to shape their medical school experience in meaningful ways. See our Engage platform for a full list of our SIGs.

Community & Volunteer Engagement

Service is at the heart of medicine, and UT Tyler medical students are dedicated to making a difference. Through partnerships with local organizations and student-led initiatives, students have the opportunity to serve East Texas communities while developing key skills in leadership, teamwork, and cultural humility.
Opportunities include:

• Free clinics providing care to underserved populations
• Health education outreach in schools and community centers
• Public health initiatives and advocacy work
• Volunteer efforts with local shelters, food banks, and non-profits

By engaging in service, students not only enhance their medical education but also strengthen their commitment to compassionate, community-centered care.

Academic Houses

Our Academic House System fosters mentorship, collaboration, and a sense of belonging throughout medical school. Every student is assigned to a house upon matriculation, where they connect with peers across all four years, faculty mentors, and student affairs staff. Each house serves as a support system, promoting wellness, professional development, and friendly competition through events like:

• House Olympics, where teams compete in academic and physical challenges
• Social gatherings and team-building activities
• Faculty and peer mentorship programs
• Leadership and service opportunities

The house system is designed to cultivate a strong, supportive learning environment while creating lifelong friendships.